Paulding County

Travel to the far northwestern portion of metro Atlanta and you will discover Paulding County, where small town life is combined with big city convenience. Located just 40 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, this community of 67,000 is one of metro Atlanta's new choices for quality development.

Cherokee Indians were the first residents, pushed westward on the infamous Trail of Tears as pioneers settled in the area. The county was named for Revolutionary War hero John Paulding, whose capture of British spy Major John Andre led to the arrest of Benedict Arnold. Paulding received accolades from General George Washington, and a statue was raised over the grave of Benedict Arnold in Paulding's honor. The Civil War also left its mark on Paulding County. New Hope Church is the site of the battle between General Sherman and Confederate General Johnston in 1864. Pickett's Mill Historic Site is said to be the best preserved Civil War Battlefield in America. Covering more than 700 acres, it plays host to authentic re-enactments and stands almost as it was on May 27, 1864, the day of the battle between Sherman General Howard.

Paulding County remained rural until the rapid expansion of Atlanta began to occur during the 1980s and 1990s. Today, Paulding County is experiencing a flood of new growth and development from both the commercial and the residential sectors. Major industries that have already located in Paulding County include Shaw Industries, the world's largest manufacturer of carpet, Cadillac Products and Metromont Materials Corporation, a supplier of pre-stressed concrete used in projects such as the Georgia Dome.

More and more companies are choosing Paulding because of the lower-than-average cost of living, the inviting tax incentives and the convenient transportation options. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is a short 30-minute drive away. The recently-completed four-lane U.S. Highway 278 bypass allows easy access to Atlanta and all its amenities.

Families are also choosing to call Paulding County home. The combination of excellent schools, state-of-the-art healthcare and affordable housing appeals to many relocating families.

The cities of Dallas and Hiram have populations of 3,838 and 1,730, respectively. This small-town atmosphere, located just a short drive away from the bright lights of Atlanta, is also a reason many choose Paulding County. Housing costs are lower than in other areas of metro Atlanta, yet the quality and selection of homes is vast. Whether you prefer a home in the country with acreage or a custom-built home in a new swim and tennis community, you can find it in Paulding County. In fact, hundreds of subdivisions can be found in all price ranges and styles. Yet there is also an abundance of untouched, undeveloped forest land. The picturesque beauty of Paulding County has been preserved for future generations to enjoy.

One of the newest developments in Paulding County is Westchester Golf & Country Club. This community will consist of 278 homes when complete, with prices ranging from the low $100s to over $200,000. Located just five miles west of Highway 92 and Hiram, the development features an 18-hole golf course and a country club.

So, what's a family to do for entertainment and recreation in Paulding County? The answer is, "Plenty!" Outdoor activities range from hiking and picnicking at nearby Red Top Mountain State Park to playing softball through the athletic leagues offered by the Parks and Recreation Department. Golf addicts will enjoy the nine-hole course at Paulding Country Club, as well as the many championship courses throughout the metro area.

In addition to the hundreds of metro area attractions, Paulding's own events draw thousands of people annually. Paulding Meadows draws upwards of 50,000 people each year to the Arts and Crafts Festival. Thousands of others attend Hunt's Meadows, the Raccoon Creek Music Festival, and weekly drag races at the Southeastern Dragway. The Georgian Resort, an 1,100-acre hotel and recreation center, is currently under construction. When complete, it will include several first rate golf courses, an equestrian center, a tennis pavilion, a hotel and convention center, and a selection of upscale homes. The first golf course is scheduled to open in September of 1998.

Quality development, small town atmosphere and a pro-business environment make Paulding County attractive to new businesses and families. With growth continuing to occur at a rapid rate, Paulding County will no doubt become an even more popular address in the years to come.